Muslims all around the world are preparing as Ramadan is approaching fast- the most Holy month of the year for Muslims, as it is when the Holy Quran was revealed.
Ramadan is the 9th month in the Islamic lunar calendar, beginning and ending with the sighting of the crescent moon. It is a month of not only fasting, but also charity, worship, and community. Often, Ramadan is reduced to just not eating or drinking during the daylight hours, but it is in fact so much more than that. Muslims worldwide use this month to immerse themselves in worship; such as by studying the Quran, and praying the congregational Tarawih prayers, which are exclusive to this month. Additionally, Ramadan is an opportunity to focus on one of the five pillars of Islam- Zakat (charity). From donating to causes worldwide, opening Mosque doors to everyone at sunset, and volunteering across the world for a multitude of reasons, this virtue is practised widely by Muslims, especially in this month.
Furthermore, one of the best things about Ramadan is the sense of community which emerges from it. Each night, families gather to break their fast as the sun sets. Mosques around the World open their doors to the less fortunate, and to the ones who may otherwise be alone at this time of year. Families and friends host dinners for one another, an opportunity to catch up with people you don’t frequently see. And ultimately, this month culminates with the three-day celebration of Eid, with its own traditions in every corner of the earth. A celebration filled with gift giving, feasts, dressing up in your best outfits, and spending time with loved ones.
